Steve (Owen Wilson) is a successful weather reporter in Annapolis, where he is less successful in creating an established relationship. Also, curiously, he is always broke but, we soon learn the reason. A childhood pal, Ben (Zach Galifianakis) has bipolar disorder and can't work, depending on Steve for daily expenses. To be truthful, the duo also has a pile of money go up in "smoke", literally, as they have a need for weed. One day, things take different path. Zach's father has passed away and the two go back to the small North Carolina town where the dad was a big wheel, with a town's store and a large farm. Unhappily, they soon run into Ben's sister (Amy Poehler) who is a bee-itch to the endth degree. Also present at the funeral is Ben's father's second wife, who is much younger, beautiful, and quirky. At the reading of the will days later, surprises are put forth. Sis gets a couple hundred thou, the widow gets a small inheritance, as was her wishes, and Ben gets the huge rest of the money and property. Sis is miffed. Ben, confused, stays in a daze on the farm, while Steve must return to Annapolis and visit on the weekends. Soon, Ben is filled with wild and crazy ideas for the money, which prompts Sis to take him to court for a psychological evaluation. Who will ultimately inherit and is there future happiness for Ben and Steve? This very interesting film, by the creator of Mad Men, is brave in its depiction of mental illness. Galifianakis is great as the troubled Ben; he is a most fine actor. Wilson does himself proud, too, in one of his most meaningful roles while Poehler will shock viewers in her role as the bad-tempered, selfish sister in an amazing about-face of her typical humor. The scenery is lovely and direction careful and sweet. Are you here is a great watch for those who like films far from the usual Hollywood fare.
